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Freshly baked Chicken Cobbler in a white ceramic dish with golden biscuits.

Mary Berry’s Chicken Cobbler

Mary Berry’s Chicken Cobbler is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, savory sauce, topped with golden, flaky biscuits. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
baking time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 People
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Saucepan
  • 1 Mixing Bowls (2-3 Bowls)
  • 1 Whisk & Wooden Spoon
  • 1 Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
  • 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • 1 Baking Dish (9x13-inch or Similar Size)
  • 1 Rolling Pin (For Biscuit Dough)
  • 1 Pastry Cutter or Fork (For Biscuit Dough)
  • 1 Oven (Preheated to 375°F/190°C)
  • 1 Wire Rack (For Cooling)

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Chicken Cobbler

For the Creamy Chicken Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 pound 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup 30g all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups 480ml chicken broth
  • 1 cup 240ml heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for extra depth

For the Biscuit Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups 180g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup 60g cold butter, cubed
  • ½ cup 120ml whole milk (or buttermilk for extra fluffiness)
  • ¼ cup 30g grated cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy topping)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Optional Garnishes & Additions:

  • Extra melted butter for brushing on biscuits before baking
  • Chopped fresh chives for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add diced chicken breasts or thighs, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
    • Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

    Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

    • In the same skillet, melt 1 more tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until they soften (about 5 minutes).
    • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

    • Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to coat them evenly (cook for 1 minute).
    • Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
    • Add 1 cup of heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version) and whisk until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
    • Stir in thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of paprika for extra depth.
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

    Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish

    • Pour the creamy chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
    • Let it cool slightly while you prepare the cobbler biscuit topping.

    Step 5: Make the Biscuit Cobbler Topping

    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
    • o 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • o 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • o ½ teaspoon salt
    • Cut ¼ cup of cold butter into small cubes and rub it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Stir in ½ cup of milk or buttermilk until a soft dough forms.
    • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness and cut into rounds (or rustic shapes).

    Step 6: Assemble and Bake

    • Arrange the biscuit dough pieces over the chicken filling, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
    • Brush the tops with a little melted butter for extra golden color.
    • Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and crisp.

    Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

    • Let the Chicken Cobbler rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
    • Serve hot and enjoy this rich, comforting British classic!

    Notes

    Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) for Mary Berry’s Chicken Cobbler

    Nutrient Amount per Serving
    Calories 420 kcal
    Total Fat 22g
    Saturated Fat 12g
    Cholesterol 85mg
    Sodium 570mg
    Total Carbohydrates 38g
    Dietary Fiber 3g
    Sugars 4g
    Protein 25g
    Calcium 120mg (12%)
    Iron 2.5mg (14%)
    Potassium 460mg (10%)
     

    Disclaimer:

    The nutrition information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredient values and portion sizes. Actual nutritional content may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. If you have dietary restrictions or medical conditions, consult a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized guidance.